How to Select a Badminton Racket for Teenagers

Badminton premiered at the 1992 Olympics as an Olympic medal sport, paving the way for a new set of young Olympic hopefuls. For serious badminton players, the right racket is an essential part of game strategy, helping them focus on their strengths while downplaying their weaknesses. The right racket can also help beginners by improving their power or maneuverability, or offering them a larger area for hitting. Whatever your teen's experience, help her choose the racket that will most benefit her.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine what weight you want your racket to be. Badminton rackets usually range in weight from 83 grams to 100 grams. Purchase a heavier racket if you have a strong wrist and want more power behind your hits, or a lighter one if you want more maneuverability.

    • 2

      Choose between an isometric, or squared, head or the more traditional oval head for your racket. Isometric heads are better for beginners because they provide a larger area for powerful shots. Oval heads are better for experienced players who can more easily hit the shuttlecock with the center of the racket every time.

    • 3

      Hold the racket in your hand to find a comfortable grip size. Keep in mind that smaller grip sizes are easier to turn in your hand during play. Larger grip sizes are easier to grip tightly for stability and power.

    • 4

      Pick a racket with more flexibility for a beginning player. Stiff rackets have little flexibility and should only be used by more experienced players who have well-developed techniques. Stiffer rackets can cause shoulder injury from the vibration of the racket hitting the shuttlecock.

    • 5

      Determine if you want an even-balanced or head-balanced racket. Even-balanced rackets are more maneuverable than head-balanced rackets. Rackets with head balance provide more power and stability.